A driveway is the first thing your guests see when they approach your home. So, it’s essential that it leaves a good impression.
This is why we’ve prepared some driveway entrance ideas that’ll help you create the driveway of your dreams. Find out about different paving options, decoration methods, and so much more!
Let’s dive into it!
Use Solar Lamps to Light Your Way
Carefully positioned lighting is a welcome addition to any driveway. Not only will it help you see where you’re going at night, but it’ll also create a pleasant atmosphere in your yard.
There are many types of driveway lights you can choose from (from traditional lanterns to modern, flat, built-in ground lights), but one option stands out in our book for the many advantages it offers — solar lights.
First, they’re incredibly easy to install — so easy you can do it yourself. And you won’t have to spend a dime on expensive electricians. Secondly, they require no wiring, so you won’t have to worry about wirework sprawling around your yard, ruining its aesthetics.
Finally, solar lights are sustainable and budget-friendly since solar energy saves money long-term.
Decorate Driveway Sides With Natural Stone
This is a perfect idea for a rustic farmhouse driveway entrance that’ll leave a good impression on all your guests. And it’s much easier and less expensive to create than you think! All you need are some large landscaping stones.
Scatter the stones all over the surface of your driveway sides in no particular order. Avoid making the “composition” too styled and go for a more organic look.
You can further elevate the aesthetic by introducing other natural elements to the stony sides (e.g., trees, shrubs, moss, or any other plants). You can also add a concrete curb edge to keep the stones in place.
An Effective Brick Driveway
If money isn’t the issue, and you’re ready to spend a bit more on a slip-resistant and durable driveway that can last for generations, look no further than a brick driveway.
Opt for quality bricks, and you’ll get a driveway that doesn’t crack easily and that’s incredibly easy to repair if the need arises.
And that’s not all! A brick driveway entrance is also one of the most stylish options you can choose. This versatile driveway goes well with any style, be it traditional or hyper-modern, so it definitely won’t clash with your yard’s aesthetics.
On the contrary! Its everlasting classiness and elegance will undoubtedly increase your curb appeal.
Keep It Simple With a Concrete Driveway
A concrete driveway is an excellent choice for homeowners that are looking for a simple driveway entrance.
And there are several reasons for this. Concrete’s simplicity makes this type of driveway incredibly versatile and able to match any house/yard style and decor — and all that at incredibly low prices.
Not only are concrete driveways inexpensive, but they’re also incredibly durable and low-maintenance. This type of driveway can last you up to 30 years on average!
On the downside, they tend to crack after some time. Fortunately, you can easily solve this problem by simply sealing your driveway.
Stay on Budget by Using Gravel
Paving a driveway can cost a lot. Expensive materials, contractors, and many other factors dictate the high price. But this doesn’t mean it’s absolutely impossible to get a cheap driveway entrance that’ll be equally as functional and good-looking.
If you opt for gravel instead of other, more expensive paving materials, you can definitely save a buck or two. Gravel is really inexpensive and can cost from $1.00 to $3.00 per square foot.
And if you decide to spread it on your driveway yourself, you can get a brand new driveway for a song.
Besides being budget-friendly, gravel can also be fairly decorative. It goes well with rustic environments, where it’ll contribute to the organic look. And don’t forget that gravel comes in many different colors, so you can play around and truly express your creativity with this material.
Protect and Decorate With a Beautiful Gate
There’s nothing like a gated driveway entrance to make your driveway both elegant and secure at the same time. On top of it all, a driveway gate can increase the value of your property, making it easier to sell, especially if you pair it with a chic, well-made fence.
There are many styles you can choose from, but we recommend an elegant cast iron gate that’s incredibly long-lasting and always en-vogue. Place it between two simple columns (or more ornamental pillars if that’s more up your alley), and your driveway will surely attract attention.
Use Tiles to Create a Modern Driveway
Outdoor tiles are extremely decorative and can give any space a modern and luxurious look. So, if you want a modern driveway entrance, this is definitely a material you can go for.
And remember — you don’t have to go all monochrome! Alternate pavers in different colors to create intricate designs and make your driveway a true showstopper.
Leave a Strip of Grass in the Middle
Most paving materials are grey and can appear a bit monotonous (even harsh) if there’s nothing else there to soften the look. One way to make your driveway appear softer and more appealing is to create a so-called ribbon strip or Hollywood driveway.
This type of driveway consists of two parallel strips of concrete or bricks and one large strip of grass in between, which adds a pop of color and brightens it up.
Best of all, using grass means saving money! You’ll spend less money on tiling, and you’ll get better drainage on top of it all, which makes your concrete less prone to cracking.
Flowers for a Touch of Nature
If you want your driveway to turn some heads, decorative landscaping around it is more than necessary. One of the best but simplest driveway entrance landscaping ideas is to simply add some flowers on the sides.
You can plant flowers directly in the ground next to your driveway and create a dazzling flower bed or place planters along the driveway. One thing is for sure — the results will be spectacular.
Opt for a Decorative Side Edge
Side edges are an essential part of a driveway. They frame the driveway and give it structural support, but they can also serve as driveway decor.
We recommend landscaping concrete edges since they’re relatively affordable, and there are many styles and designs you can choose from.
For example, you could go for a side edge that imitates Victorian rope edging. This will surely add a lot of visual appeal to your driveway.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many ways to spruce up your driveway and get jaw-dropping results. We hope our driveway ideas have inspired you to finally tackle your driveway and make it neater and more appealing.
FAQ
What can I line my driveway with?
Brick pavers are the most common option for lining/edging a driveway.
But there are many other options you can try:
- Concrete blocks
- Flowers
- Paver edging
- Grass
- Wood
- Cobblestones, etc.
What is the cheapest surface for a driveway?
Gravel is the most affordable surface for a driveway. It costs much less than bricks and even concrete (about $1.00–$3.00 per square foot). And, since it’s easy to install, you can even do it on your own and save on construction workers’ wages.
What is a roll curb?
A mountable or rolled (roll) curb is a sloped type of curb that allows a more gentle transition from one surface to another. For example, it’s often used as a transition between the driveway and the road.
However, it’s important to note that, though you can easily drive over a rolled curb, it’s recommended that you avoid doing this too often if you can. Though they’re sloped and can be driven over, roll curbs can still damage your car over time.
How can I make my driveway more appealing?
You can elevate the look of your driveway in many ways. For example, you could use pavers in different colors and create interesting designs on your driveway. You can also cover the sides with stones or use flowers as decor.
If you need more inspiration, check out our driveway entrance ideas above!
